What is a hardship license?

A hardship license is specifically designed to allow individuals who have had their regular driving privileges revoked due to a DUI conviction to drive under certain restrictions. This type of license typically permits driving for necessary activities such as commuting to work, attending school, or going to treatment programs. The purpose of a hardship license is to provide individuals with a means to conduct essential daily activities while still acknowledging the consequences of their DUI offense.

In contrast, a limited license issued for any traffic violation does not target DUI offenses specifically and lacks the restrictions geared towards rehabilitation. A full driving license granted to first-time offenders would not typically exist for those convicted of DUI, as having a DUI violation generally results in at least a temporary suspension of driving privileges. Finally, a license that allows driving without limitations contradicts the very essence of a hardship license, which inherently comes with restrictions as a means of ensuring public safety while granting some driving privileges.